stephanie freitas (she/her)

My training is primarily in person-centered which is guiding the therapy around the client. It is part of my main principal in counseling, which is that the therapy needs to work for the patient.

Eclectic is really the best way to describe what I do in a typical session. I pull a little bit for different orientations and backgrounds to help you achieve your therapy goals.

It is essential to me that everyone's beliefs and value systems are understood and respected. Our cultural and religious views make up huge parts of who are and therefore to understand my clients I have to understand where they came from.

Adolescence can be a very difficulty and overwhelming time. Common issues that arise in therapy among adolescents are: self harm, self esteem, gender identity, sexual orientation, bullying, academic struggles, family problems, trauma, interpersonal struggles/relationship isuues, depression and anxiety. It is important for teens to learn skills to manage these difficulties now so that they can carry these skills into their adulthood.

Depression can look very different in different people. I have worked with depressed adults and adolescents. CBT is typically the preferred approach for treating depression although there are many approaches that can be used.

Families can benefit from therapy in a variety of situations such as: conflict, coping with significant illness, grieving a significant loss, processing divorce or separation, co-parenting and improving communication. I have worked with families for several years and there are many benefits to therapy.

Living with anxiety isn't easy. Anxiety is unpredictable and often kicks in during critical moments, when we wish we had it the least. I utilize an eclectic approach to help my clients develop real world tools and skills to manage anxiety in their day to day lives, in a variety of settings. I assist clients to work towards management and reduction of their anxiety so that they can feel like they are in control.

Whether it be planned or unplanned, life transitions can be incredibly stressful and as your therapist I get that. Even when we have a planned change it seems like something always goes wrong. This is why I support you in setting up a plan, developing supports, navigating the twists and turns and reducing associated stressors. Change can be scary, but it can be managed.

As women, it can sometimes feel like there are so many expectancies that just can't be met. I support clients in their various different roles and stages of life as women and help them navigate who they are as a woman during these times. We talk about dynamic women's issues, how they impact your life and livelihood. We work on establishing a supportive space for you through an eclectic approach.

Whether it be planned or unplanned, life transitions can be incredibly stressful and as your therapist I get that. Even when we have a planned change it seems like something always goes wrong. This is why I support you in setting up a plan, developing supports, navigating the twists and turns and reducing associated stressors. Change can be scary, but it can be managed. Implementing CBT and relaxation techniques it is possible to manage anxiety.